mineral

Milky Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Milky white to translucent with yellow/orange iron staining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Hexagonal system); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.65

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Milky white to translucent with yellow/orange iron staining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins or igneous pegmatites through the cooling of silica-rich fluids. Milky quartz specifically gets its color from tiny fluid inclusions of gas and/or liquid trapped during crystal growth.

Uses & applications

Used in glassmaking, as an abrasive, in electronics (piezoelectric properties), and frequently as landscaping stone or low-cost collector specimens.

Geological facts

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral in Earth's continental crust. Milky quartz is the most common variety and the white color is caused by millions of microscopic bubbles.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (it will scratch glass), lack of cleavage, and white-to-clear appearance. Found globally in almost all geological environments. Look for iron oxidation creating the yellowish tint seen here.